The Government of Montenegro has allocated a budget of €487.12 million to the Health Insurance Fund (FZO) for the year 2026, which reflects a 7.62 percent increase compared to the previous year. Officials from the FZO described this budget as “rationally allocated,” asserting it poses no risk to insured individuals. The budget aims to enhance the availability of medicines and medical supplies for the country’s residents.
Of the total budget, €197 million is earmarked specifically for pharmaceuticals and medical devices. This includes €25 million designated for private pharmacies, while €172 million will be directed to Montefarm, the state-owned pharmacy chain. The projected budget represents a significant increase of 20.23 percent over the previous year’s budget, aligning with the rising costs of healthcare products.
Despite this optimistic outlook, various factors could influence overall spending during the fiscal year. The FZO emphasized that any deviations from projected expenditures would not compromise the primary goal: ensuring that insured individuals have access to necessary medications.
Sead Čirgić, the former director of FZO, raised concerns regarding the proposed budget for 2026, indicating that it falls short of actual spending levels from 2025. He highlighted an annual growth rate of healthcare expenditures at approximately 10 percent, suggesting that the budget has been underestimated.
According to Čirgić, “I believe that the effects of programs ES 1 and 2 will diminish, likely resulting in an annual growth rate of healthcare expenditure below 10 percent but above 7 percent, meaning the shortfall could range from €35 to €50 million.” This projection raises questions about the sustainability of funding for healthcare services.
In a recent statement, the FZO acknowledged that the Government had approved an additional €30 million to ensure that medications and medical supplies are available through the end of the year. However, they maintain that the 2026 budget has been fundamentally planned to address anticipated needs.
Throughout the year, budget allocations may fluctuate based on actual spending, but the FZO is committed to ensuring that insured individuals receive complete and timely healthcare. They affirmed that collaboration among the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Health, and the FZO is ongoing, focusing on strategic improvements to enhance the status of insured individuals and eliminate existing system anomalies.
Čirgić noted that the healthcare system will remain a high priority for the Government in the coming year, especially in light of growing dissatisfaction among patients and the public. He stated, “Given that I do not expect any substantial reforms in the system, the situation for patients will not improve compared to previous years, leading to long waiting lists and the transfer of healthcare costs to patients.”
While he does not anticipate significant medication shortages that could disrupt the system, he acknowledged the importance of proactive measures to address eroded public trust in healthcare. He explained that these efforts aim to prevent problems, but also pointed out that the upcoming year is an election year, which may influence policy decisions.
To ensure financial stability, the government plans to allow borrowing up to €3.1 billion under the 2026 budget law. Čirgić remarked on the unprecedented nature of such borrowing limits, which exceed the projected revenues of €3.08 billion for the next year. He expressed concern, stating, “Then we will plan even more borrowing in the 2027 budget.”
This budgetary approach raises significant implications for Montenegro’s healthcare system, as officials strive to balance fiscal responsibility with the pressing needs of the population. The FZO remains confident that the proposed measures will be sufficient to maintain stable access to healthcare services for all citizens.
